Fentanyl is a dangerous synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times stronger than other opioids. This high potency makes the drug incredibly addictive and very dangerous. Fentanyl is usually made illicitly and sold on the street in unregulated quantities. The drug can be prescribed in rare cases, but this does not account for most fentanyl use. As opioid addiction continues to become more common, understanding the dangers of the substance are important to prevention and sobriety.
Effects of Fentanyl
Fentanyl binds itself to the body’s opioid receptors – controlling emotions and managing pain. This damages the brain’s ability to produce serotonin on its own, which means users end up relying on the drug to feel pleasure or joy.
Common effects of fentanyl use include:
- Sense of extreme happiness
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Fatigue
- Breathing issues
- Loss of consciousness or confusion
These effects become more extreme as use of fentanyl continues. Many people end up overdosing trying to achieve the happiness and euphoria they desire each time. Fentanyl is highly addictive due to its potency, even when taken by prescription it must be used very carefully.
If someone becomes addicted to fentanyl, detox always is needed before they can enter the next phase of rehabilitation treatment. Fentanyl detox should only be done in a medically supervised setting to ensure the safety and well-being of the individual. Detoxing at home may have deadly side effects or result in a relapse that causes overdose.
Fentanyl Detox Timeline
Detoxing from fentanyl takes anywhere from three to 14 days. The timeline ultimately depends on the individual’s usage history, dosage, and other health factors. Withdrawal symptoms can start anywhere from one to 24 hours after the last dose. These withdrawal symptoms typically peak within one to three days. However, some symptoms may last longer. Medical supervision during detox is important to ensure that symptoms are normal and progress is being made safely.
For fentanyl, approved detox medications are:
- Buprenorphine
- Naltrexone
- Clonidine
Doctors may prescribe one or multiple medications to people going through fentanyl detox. Clients must be open and honest with the care team treating them so that the care team can alter their medications and care plan as needed.
Don’t Let Fentanyl Control Your Life
Fentanyl is incredibly dangerous, and it’s becoming more common to be addicted to the drug. Understanding the risks of fentanyl use will help you identify potential addiction amongst yourself or loved ones. If you or someone you know is exhibiting signs of fentanyl or opioid addiction, no one deserves to suffer. Early intervention and rapid response could save a life. At Solution Based Treatment we offer the full range of detox, rehab, and outpatient care so that everyone in our care gets the right addiction treatment for their needs. We offer detox, residential rehab, as well as intensive outpatient treatment and partial hospitalization programs. Take back control of your life and kick fentanyl to the side.
About Solution Based Treatment
Solution Based Treatment is a national leader in detox and rehab programs. We offer inpatient medical detox, substance rehab, intensive outpatient programs, partial hospitalization programs, faith-based recovery, and sober living options. We maintain a 2:1 client to staff ratio to offer the best support possible to our patients within upscale living environments. At Solution Based Treatment, we support better living for brighter futures, all starting with our detox and rehab services. For more information visit our website at solutionbasedtreatment.com or give us a call at (833) 999-1941.